Back to School by John McCabe

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The Test Every Kid Needs Before Going Back to School (StatePoint) — Before schedules get too hectic, experts say that parents should prioritize a visit to the eye doctor this back-to-school season. “An annual comprehensive eye exam is essential for optimal wellness, as well as ensuring your child reaches his or her full academic potential,” says Dr. Jennifer Wademan, VSP network eye doctor. The incidence of visual impairment in preschool children is expected to increase 26 percent over the next 45 years, affecting almost 220,000 children, according to a recent study by the USC Gayle and Edward Roski Eye Institute. What’s more, kids have more demand on their eyes and vision than ever before due to the increased use of digital devices. To help ensure a smooth transition back-to-school, consider the following tips and insights: Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam While 76 percent of parents said sight is the most important sense, only 50 percent take their kids for an annual eye exam, according to a recent survey conducted by YouGov and VSP Vision Care, with many parents under the incorrect impression that the vision screening conducted by the school nurse or at the pediatrician’s office is sufficient. Although many schools offer abbreviated vision screenings throughout the year, they can miss up to 80 percent of vision problems, including serious conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), which can lead to vision loss if not treated. An annual comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect vision problems, as well as other conditions

related to the eyes that can affect overall health and wellness. “How a child’s brain processes visual information is complex, and a screening alone isn’t a substitute for a comprehensive exam, nor is it the most reliable way to track a child’s eye health,” says Dr. Wademan. “A comprehensive eye exam with an eye doctor however, evaluates multiple aspects of vision, including the close-up skills essential for reading, tracking and focusing.” Don’t Wait for Complaints Among those parents who do not bring their children to the eye doctor annually, 72 percent of moms and 48 percent of dads said they would be motivated to do so if their child complains of discomfort or changes in vision. Don’t wait for that first complaint! Certain changes to eyesight can happen gradually, and children may not realize that their vision is impaired. Dr. Wademan points out that catching problems early is important: “When a child’s visual system is not given a clear and focused image, and if his or her eyes are not working together, the child could fail to ever achieve normal visual acuity,” she says. “These patients end up struggling to see well in adulthood, even with contacts or glasses.” To find an eye doctor near you, visit VSP.com. Photo Provided Remember, vision and learning are directly connect- For success in the classroom, the sports field and more, ed, as approximately 80 percent of what a child learns start the school year right with a comprehensive eye is presented visually. exam.

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Belmont College Holding Open House Aug. 7-8 ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Belmont College, which has been assisting the residents of the Ohio Valley in achieving their educational and career goals for more than 40 years, currently offers more than 25 academic degrees and 20 certificates in a wide variety of program areas. Some of the fastest-growing career fields, such as nursing, health care assistants, and information systems, employ Belmont College graduates. Belmont offers not only certificate and degree programs in the areas of business, allied health, public safety, industrial technologies and engineering technologies, but also the associate of arts and associate of science degrees that allow students the ability to trans-

fer their credits toward a bachelor’s degree at four-year institutions. In addition, the Workforce Development and Community Education Department offers classes for those seeking training without the extended time commitment of completing a degree or certificate. Offerings include: HVAC; pharmacy technician; real estate: and STNA just to list a few. At Belmont, the Trustees Scholarship is offered to recent high school graduates. This scholarship provides a tuition-only award to students to cover the cost of up to six academic terms after other forms of need-based financial aid have been applied. Students must meet eligibility requirements in order to receive the Trustees

Scholarship extension, meaning that they must enroll at Belmont in the summer or fall semester immediately following their high school graduation. Additionally, these students must meet residency requirements for Belmont, Harrison, or Monroe counties and have graduated from a high school in one of these counties. Comprehensive community colleges, such as Belmont, are a less expensive alternative to many higher priced four-year institutions. According to President Paul Gasparro, “We strive to make college affordable for our students, so that emphasis can be placed on academics instead of how to pay for tuition. Whether their destination

is the workforce or an advanced degree, starting at Belmont enables Trustees Scholarship recipients the opportunity to benefit from lower costs and easy transferability to a four-year institution for degree completion.” Furthermore, Belmont College will be holding open houses from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 7-8 at the Academic Technical Center in St. Clairsville. Prospective students and their families are invited to meet and talk with college faculty and staff, receive assistance with admissions and financial aid, and tour the newly renovated campus. The open houses will be Luau themed to celebrate the end of summer — free food and giveaways will be provided.

Information regarding the college’s Be Connected initiative will be available, which provides an iPad for every student, faculty and the majority of staff members for integration into every facet of student life from enrollment to graduation. Through Be Connected, the iPads help save students money on textbooks, as well as enhance the way Belmont College teaches and prepares students for the technology-driven careers that await them. Fall classes begin Aug. 19. For more information about Belmont College, or to register, contact the Academic Technical Center in St. Clairsville at 740-695-9500 or call toll-free in Ohio 800-4231188. Visit online at belmontcollege.edu.

Today’s Assignment for Classroom Design: Flexibility By KIM COOK Associated Press Desks lined up in precise rows with teacher firmly planted at the front: That was the standard classroom format for much of the last century. But with many educators saying kids can do better in a more relaxed and flexible learning environment, designers and architects have been providing spaces and furnishings to fit that bill. “Innovators no longer speak of ‘classrooms,’” says Bob Pearlman, a Tucson, Arizona-based education consultant. “Students now work in learning studios, plazas and home bases. They shift into varied extended learning areas and collaboration zones that include project-planning rooms, workrooms, focused labs, group learning spaces, individual pods.” He mentions Albemarle County’s public school system, in Charlottesville, Virginia. The district invited teams from all its schools to conceptualize learning spaces that would inspire kids to tackle complex ideas and work on creative building projects. Now, the elementary grades have swapped out traditional desks for stools, soft seating, mobile chairs and connectable tables. Another new reality changing the dynamic: connectivity. “Classrooms, libraries, and

labs used to be the only spaces where students spent their school hours. Wireless, laptops and project learning have changed that,” Pearlman says. “This has transformed all school spaces into potential extended learning areas, even the corridors and alcoves.” LAYOUT Back in the 1970s, American psychologist Robert Sommer was urging a critical look at traditional classroom layouts, saying classrooms aren’t just simple cubes, says Jo Earp, editor of Teacher magazine, a publication of the nonprofit Australian Council for Educational Research. Sommer noted that in any given room, the lighting or heating will be better in some spots than in others, as will the view of the blackboard. Besides the alternative “freeform” classroom, Earp says, some teachers can find good results with a hybrid model, perhaps lining up desks at the start of the year and then rearranging them in groups as the classroom dynamic becomes clearer and projects are undertaken. Natural light and views, reduced background noise and good air quality are all considerations in classroom design, says Aaron Jobson of Quattrocchi Kwok Architects in Santa Rosa, California. “More and more evidence connects the physical environment to learning outcomes,” he says.

New designs include internal glass walls and doors that increase connectedness among students and provide good sightlines for teachers. The concept of dynamic, explorative learning spaces was championed by futurist David Thornburg in his book “From the Campfire to the Holodeck” (Jossey-Bass, 2013). He said schools should provide spaces based on how humans learn, with a balance of campfire (lecture space), watering hole (conversation space), cave (reflection space) and life (experiential space). That could mean one room is used in different ways at different times, or in different ways at the same time. Loren Myers, a first-grade teacher at a public charter school in San Jose, California, says retrofitting traditional schools can be expensive, and teachers don’t have big budgets. She says many get creative with resources to create a unique classroom. “I personally incorporate some innovative spaces into my traditional layout; there’s a peace corner where students can go to calm down, a VIP table for students who show exemplary work ethics, and flex seating for students who need alternative options to stay focused.” Stephanie Dominguez, a principal at Feaster Charter School in Chula Vista, California, says

her aim is to prepare kids for the work world. “There isn’t one industry in which professional adults work in isolation; most professionals work in collaborative settings,” she says. Teachers at her school have flexibility to design their own spaces, she says, but across the 70 classrooms there’s one thing in common: “Students must have spaces or desk structures that make collaborating with their peers easy.” FURNISHINGS Over the decades, famous designers have lent their talents to school furniture — among them, Jean Prouve’s mid-1930s tubular steel and wood single desk, double bench and chair; Alvar Aalto’s inclinable tabletop desk of the 1950s; and Arne Jacobsen’s bent plywood desk and chair of the same era. Today, classroom furniture runs the gamut from chairs to chaises, with work tables of varying heights. Imagine Charter Schools, based in Arlington, Virginia, and operating schools in nine states, offers colorful swivel seating, as well as comfy upholstered benches. Montessori schools have soft lighting similar to home environments, and more subdued furniture and decor than traditional classrooms. Marianne Box, a design specialist at school-furniture maker Hertz Furniture, in Ramsey, New Jersey, says ergonomic

seating and mobile, flexible pieces are big sellers. The focus is on managing kids’ energy levels, and giving them places to concentrate. Classroom bean bags give younger students a place to read. “They mold to fit each student, giving them support and a sense of comfort,” she says. Self-contained study booths have tablet surfaces, power supplies, footrests and armrests. A molded plastic wobble stool comes in various sizes and colors; Box says it also promotes torso and leg movement. “This stool gives students an outlet for their energy, allowing them to focus and balance while in a classroom,” she says. “The best part is that the movement isn’t distracting to others, and can be used by students and teachers.” Humanscale, maker of workplace furnishings, also has a mobility stool they call Ballo, which looks like an apple core, with colorful, air-filled dimpled domes on both ends of a central spool. Myers, the first-grade teacher, loves that designers are coming up with more seating options for young students. “Children shouldn’t be expected to sit still in a chair for more than 20 minutes at a time,” she says. “Sometimes it’s as simple as switching where and how you sit that can set the tone for the rest of your day.”

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Stocking Up for School Can Be Eco-Friendly and Economical By BEV O’SHEA NerdWallet Earth-friendly school supplies might sound expensive, but you can be gentle with the planet and respectful of your wallet. Start by widening your idea of what’s “green.” LOOK FOR FREEBIES FIRST Using what you already have is the ultimate environmentally friendly move and fits with a frugal lifestyle . Look for pens, pencils, unused journals picked up at a convention, binders no longer in use, and unused or lightly used supplies from last year. You may not have to buy at all. Chelsea Brennan, who blogs at Smart Money Mamas, says she sees posts on her hyperlocal Buy Nothing Facebook group every fall requesting notebooks and other school supplies. “And then someone may comment, ‘We have those, plus three composition books that have never been written in. Do you need those?’” Brennan says she

borrows, donates and receives items through the group. SAVE ON BACKPACKS AND OFFICE SUPPLIES For backpacks, Mary Hunt, founder of the website Cheapskate Monthly, recommends JanSport or Eastpak for durability. If you are shopping resale, those are labels to look for because they’ll last longer. And JanSport backpacks have a lifetime warranty. Or choose a backpack made from recycled materials. Whether you choose new, used or recycled, look for sturdy zippers, pockets and supportive, padded straps. You don’t want this year’s backpack to be in a landfill next year. Many stores now carry office-supply lines that are earth-friendly. Several companies offer pens made from recycled plastic. Pencils can be made from recycled newspaper, but they’re more expensive than pedestrian wooden pencils. A mechanical, refillable pencil might be the more economical

green choice. Notebooks and loose-leaf paper made from recycled paper can be fairly pricey. For example, a set of four college-ruled “decomposition books” at Target costs more than $25. If recycled paper products don’t fit your budget, you can still be green by making sure your student recycles used paper instead of throwing it in the trash. Derek B. Davis, a spokesman for Earth.com, noted that many schools now bundle required items and offer them to parents. You may not save money but you’ll save gas and time. CUT COSTS ON FOOD AND DRINK CONTAINERS Davis thinks the item likely to have the biggest impact on the planet is your student’s reusable water bottle “Ä” hardly a budget breaker. Reusable packaging for lunches and snacks also saves you money and lets you contribute less to the enormous problem of plastic in oceans and landfills. To estimate the impact of a

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water bottle, know this: Americans use an average of 13 single-use plastic bottles per month, according to the nonprofit Earth Day Network. One reusable bottle, over a ninemonth school year, could keep 117 single-use bottles out of circulation. Tap water is vastly cheaper than bottled, and eliminates plastic waste and the carbon emissions needed to distribute bottled water for sale. There are also reusable “Ä” and dishwasher-safe “Ä” containers or bags for sandwiches and snacks. You can put those reusable bags inside a reusable lunch container. Bento boxes, which have compartments for various types of food, are another alternative. Reusable lunch bags and boxes can be purchased fairly inexpensively new “Ä” or keep an eye out for used ones. Davis, the father of a rising second-grader, notes that kids lose things, and suggests buying backups of water bottles or lunch containers if you see an

especially good price. SHOP SECONDHAND FOR CLOTHES For back-to-school clothes, consider resale stores. You may find clothes that are practically new for pennies on the dollar. You save money and extend the life of the clothes, keeping them out of landfills. You can shop online with ThredUP and similar sites. Finally, no matter where you’re shopping, bring a reusable bag, Davis says. Keep one handy in the car. What will ultimately be most effective in cleaning up the Earth, he says, is kids seeing parents who weave green living into everyday life: For instance, making coffee at home, drinking from reusable cups and making their own seltzer. This article was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet. Bev O’Shea is a writer at NerdWallet. Email: boshea@ nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @BeverlyOShea.

Six Ways to Set Up The Perfect Workstation (StatePoint) Before the school year kicks into high gear, it’s important to give yourself the tools needed for academic success and maximum organization. Here are six ideas to set up the perfect workstation: 1. Clear up clutter. First, determine how you use items. If paperwork is referenced multiple times a week, store it on your desk in a file tray or upright sorter. If you use these items more rarely, you can store them in a drawer using a hanging filing system. Likewise, keep the tools you use most — pens, pencils, calculator, on your desk. A compartmental caddy is a tidy way to store such items of varying sizes. 2. Give it some life. Plants can help liven up a work atmosphere, bringing vitality to the space. Improving indoor air quality

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and being associated with mental health benefits, houseplants are more than just beautiful. And introducing them to a workstation may just help boost productivity during long study sessions. 3. Visualize it. Great for prepping school presentations or easily viewing documents, a projector is a great addition to a student’s workstation. Those in the Casio LampFree lineup feature high-brightness, are low-maintenance and have a lifetime of up to 20,000 hours, making them a good choice for students. 4. Write it down. No workstation is complete without a handy notebook, kept close by. Whether it’s making to-do lists, jotting down quick thoughts or taking notes, this is a musthave item, even in today’s digital world.

5. Add it up. A basic desktop calculator is essential to any student’s workstation. Those from Casio feature 12 digits, and run on both battery and solar power so you can work anywhere, and with independent memory, you can easily take breaks from tasks and return to them later. 6. The right light. If possible, set up workstations near sources of natural light for a mood and focus boost. For nighttime study sessions and for those without windows, high-quality task lighting is critical. Versatility is key, so look for a desk lamp with an adjustable neck as well as dimming capabilities. For space-savers, check out desk lamps pulling double-duty — many of today’s models feature USB charging ports at their base.

Great Reading Ideas to Inspire Young Students (StatePoint) A new school year means new classes, new teachers and new schedules. At home, you can riff on this theme with new books to be enjoyed outside the classroom, that spark interest in different subjects. To open doors for young minds, consider the following titles: ∫ Crafty coding: For kids with a potential interest in computers and coding, consider “How to Be a Coder.” Breaking down the principles of coding into bitesized chunks, it will get them thinking like computer scientists in no time. Learn about loops by making a friendship bracelet, find out about programming by planning a scavenger hunt, and discover how functions work with paper fortune tellers. Children can then use their new knowledge to code by following instructions to build programs in Scratch 3.0. ∫ Inspiring true stories: In “DK Life Stories: Jane Goodall” kids can discover the inspiring story of Jane Goodall, a pioneer of primatology whose groundbreaking work changed the way we understand animals and ourselves. When she embarked on her career, women were discouraged from conducting scientific research, especially when that work meant living side by side with wild animals. A self-taught scien-

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After school is the perfect time to explore topics of interest, and a treasure trove of books can make learning new things fun. tist, Goodall bravely ventured into the bush of Tanzania to discover the secret world of chimpanzees. This new biography series for kids from DK goes beyond basic facts to tell true-life stories of history’s most interesting people. ∫ Edible science: Cooking is chemis-

Gear Up With Essentials As You Ready for Campus Life (StatePoint) Before the semester begins, be sure you have all the essentials you need to live your best campus life. Here are some top picks for a fresh start to fall: ∫ Packing up: Consider the bag you will carry with you every day. A backpack is the best way to ensure that you’re distributing weight equally between shoulders, but you’ll likely want to upgrade your high school look. The right bag can handle heavy loads, is waterproof and ergonomic, features safe electronic device storage and even offers such perks as a USB charging port on its exterior. ∫ Keeping time: A timepiece is not only a sophisticated way to make a style statement, you may find it quite vital during class, when other devices should

be put away. Go for a classic look that will carry you between dates, the dining hall, the library and anywhere else your collegiate schedule takes you. The new models in Casio’s Vintage Collection, for example, add a bold, retro-inspired look to any outfit, and come equipped with an auto calendar and daily alarms, so you never miss a session, appointment or deadline. ∫ Rocking Out: Start a band, jam out with friends or just go solo with an instrument perfectly designed for campus living, such as the portable PX-S1000, a keyboard that’s barely larger than the keys themselves and fits any space or decor. While integrated Bluetooth audio lets you play music through its powerful stereo amplification system, you can also plug into head-

phones for a quick practice session that won’t disturb any studying roommates. ∫ Take note: When heading to class or a study session, consider leaving the laptop and notebooks at home and traveling lighter. Download the latest notetaking apps to your tablet, which combine the simplicity and versatility of paper and pen with the organizational and sharable convenience of digital. ∫ Entertaining: Space may be tight in college dorms and apartments, but you can still create a mini home theater that makes you the official host of movie nights, gaming nights, sports spectating and more. For a compact setup, check out the SLIM series of LampFree Projectors, which reach maximum brightness in eight seconds.

try, and all 20 science experiments inside “Science You Can Eat,” are edible and fun. Young minds can find out why popcorn go “pop,” explore how taste is affected by smell, then discover the secret to making the perfect cookie. Examining interesting ingredients and exciting eating, as well as

peeking into the future of food, kids will get a better understanding of what’s happening with food and why. ∫ A global celebration: Young readers of “Celebrations Around the World” will embark on an exciting journey through the most interesting and important festivals, celebrations and holidays enjoyed by people all over the globe. From why skeletons dance at the Day of the Dead in Mexico to how the world’s biggest tomato fight — La Tomatina in Spain — gets cleaned up, stunning original illustrations and fascinating facts will inspire and inform children about cultures and religions from all over the world. ∫ Medieval mania: Spark an interest in history and architecture with “DK findout! Castles,” which includes lots to learn about medieval castles, including knights, jousting, sieges, drawbridges and forts. Kids can learn about castle design, from the earliest motte and bailey styles to stone fortresses and beautiful castles in Japan and India, as well as view some of the most impressive castles in the world. Packed with information and color, this book is part of a series introducing children to a range of topics in a fun, engaging way.

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Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Career-Technical Education Editor’s note: The following article was provided to The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register by Belmont-Harrison Career Center, which provides Career-Technical Education to high school students at its locations in St. Clairsville and Cadiz. More and more the conversation about jobs has been turning to the issue of how fast jobs are changing and the need to properly educate and train the current and future workforce for those changes. As technology advances in nearly all fields, the demand for highly skilled workers is at an all- time high. The problem is traditional education is not

keeping up. That is why awareness and support for education that thinks outside the box and gives students real-world skills and a direct path to a good-paying job is becoming more important than ever. Career-Technical Education has made great strides in the past decade to teach students real-world knowledge and skills while boasting a 93 percent graduation rate compared to the national average of 82 percent. Recent findings show that CTE students and parents are more satisfied with their education experience by nearly every aspect compared to those not involved with CTE. This was particularly true for aspects related

to career readiness such as opportunities to explore careers, gain real-world skills and network with employers. In addition to understanding how CTE was performing for students and parents in the program, CTE leaders also learned what three elements of CTE was most important to prospective parents and students. They include: 1) CTE allows students to come out of high school with a real-world skill. 2) CTE classes allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. 3) CTE programs have partnerships with employers in their communities who may provide training, men-

torship, opportunities for internships, networking and even entry-level jobs. While the findings were very exciting for CTE leaders and advocates, CTE continues to struggle with awareness. Just under half (47 percent) of prospective parents and students report having heard of CTE. Meanwhile, 68 percent have heard of “vocational education.” This has contributed to CTE enrollment remaining stagnant over the last decade, even as demand for a skilled workforce has increased. “There is a perception in promoting Career-Technical Education and it is hurting our students and our society,” said David Etzwiler,

CEO of the Siemens Foundation. “We hear time and again about the need for skilled workers and the realities of careers requiring postsecondary education, not always a traditional four-year degree, in order to fill these demands.” As of late, however, CTE has been getting more attention as a solution to the skills gap problem that continues to grow in our country. Mike Rowe, former host of “Dirty Jobs” and well known for his Ford commercials, is an advocate of the skilled trades through his foundation “mikeroweWORKS.” He spoke before a congressional subcommittee that was looking into what changes can be made

to strengthen CTE and better prepare students for the workforce. During the panel discussion, Rowe argued that there needs to be a shift in the perception that a four-year degree is the best path for most people. It is that belief, he said, that has come at the expense of community colleges, trade schools and apprenticeship programs and has helped widen the skills gap. “If you want to make America great again, you have to make work cool again,” Rowe told them. “You have to change the image of the opportunity.” *Source: WorkingNation, by author Kristin Falzon

Is Teaching Writing as Important as Teaching Reading? By MOLLY SPRAYREGEN Associated Press When we think of literacy, we tend to think of reading. Schools, literary nonprofits and philanthropists often focus on encouraging students to be strong readers with solid comprehension skills. While those skills are crucial, many experts say critical and creative writing skills are equally important, and are too often overlooked. Compared to reading, writing is more active, encouraging students to be independent thinkers, take ownership over their own stories and ideas, and communicate them clearly to others, says Elyse Eidman-Aadahl, executive director of the National Writing Project, which offers resources for teachers who want to encourage students to write. “Unless we want an education system just focused on making people consumers and not focused on helping them be producers, this emphasis on reading only, which does happen in so many places, is very short-sighted,” she says. Even when students are given writing assignments, she explains, the work tends to focus on assessing a text, rather than on presenting a new idea. Writing, she says, should be “the central thing you’re learning. Not writing on a test, not writing to demonstrate you’re learning what someone has taught you,

but also really writing as an author writes.” Reading, of course, contributes immensely to one’s personal growth. But teaching it together with writing nurtures both, says Rebecca Wallace-Segall, executive director of a New York City writing center, Writopia Lab. “Writing impacts your ability to read,” she says. “Over 90% of our kids who come in as reluctant writers, parents have reported they become more engaged readers as they’ve fallen in love with the writing process.” From a practical standpoint, writing is more important than ever; we depend on it for personal and professional communication. “We see this from employers all the time. They’re looking for folks who can write,” says Eidman-Aadahl. “Certainly with digital tools right now, think of what we’re all doing all day. We’re probably interacting with the internet through writing.” Kids are already writing all the time, in texts, emails and social media posts. “Whether they’re actually being provided with the opportunity to learn to write, whether schools are addressing it or not, they’re already writing and publishing,” Eidman-Aadahl says. “Every young person is an author today if he or she is connected to the Internet. So we

have to help them do it in the best, most responsible, critical, prosocial way.” Advocates of teaching writing say it is empowering. “When students own their voices and tell their stories, they become not only stronger and more confident writers, but also stronger and more confident individuals,” says Ali Haider, executive director of the Austin, Texas-based creative writing center, the Austin Bat Cave. Wallace-Segall says writing also helps students work through difficulties. “Creative writing, it’s a lifeline for us,” she says. “We’re watching kids work through their greatest challenges, subconsciously. They’re not writing a story about a difficult father or directly about a bully in class, but they are creating a fictional scenario that might feel distant enough for them to go deep into it.” And teaching students to write can have an impact on the larger world, notes Dare Dukes, executive director of Deep Center, an organization in Savannah, Georgia, that works with young writers to share their stories with policy makers, judges, politicians, police officers and the like. “So those adults can see that the AP Photo stories they’re telling themselves about those young people are often Ten-year-old Genevieve Thiel shows off her work during Austin wrong and doing a lot of harm in the Bat Cave’s week-long Magical Realism summer camp in Austin, Texas. world,” says Dukes.

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Five Tips for Managing Your Student Loan Debt (StatePoint) Student loan debt is a fact of life for many college graduates and their parents, with borrowers owing approximately $1.6 trillion in federal and private student loans in 2019. While some graduates easily repay their loans, others struggle to manage their debt. Nearly one-quarter of respondents in a recent CFP Board/ Morning Consult survey reported they or someone in their household has student loan debt. Only 21 percent of respondents with student loans were very confident they could manage and pay off their debt. Another 21 percent knew their student loan debt would be overwhelming and were not at all confident in their ability to repay. The survey also highlighted the impact student debt can have on an individual’s ability to achieve important milestones, such as saving for retirement. Approximately one-third of respondents said it was unlikely they would be able to contribute to a savings

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With the right information and assistance, you can better manage student loan debt while preparing for the future. or retirement account while pay- professional can provide compeing off their student loans, while tent, ethical advice on managing nearly 50 percent said they would debt while building a retirement not be able to fund an investment fund and balancing other financial portfolio. goals. Here are five tips to get you If you have student loans, a started: Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ∫ Get organized. Borrowers

may miss student loan payments simply because they’re unaware of the terms of their loans. Knowing how much you owe, to whom, and the terms of your loans can help you make informed budget and repayment decisions. ∫ Consider consolidating loans. Many students graduate with loans from multiple sources. Consolidating student loans simplifies repayment and may decrease the amount you pay monthly. However, keep in mind that consolidation isn’t the best strategy for everyone. Evaluate your specific loans and learn more about what consolidation might look like for you. ∫ Set up automatic payments. Automatic payment plans save time, stress and, in some cases, money. Some lenders will decrease the interest rate on your loan (usually less than 1 percent) as an incentive to set up automatic debit payments. Even a small reduction can save you money in the long run. ∫ Know your repayment options. There are several repayment

plans for federal student loans. This includes options that lower monthly payments in proportion to income. Or, you can apply for a deferment or forbearance, which allows you to stop making payments for a certain period. ∫ Get employer assistance. Ask if your company offers financial assistance for school expenses or student loan payments. Although not directly related to student loans, if your employer matches employee retirement contributions, make sure you’re maximizing that benefit. Failing to make your own contributions up to that match is likely leaving a significant amount of money on the table. Finding a balance between all your financial goals is important. For more debt management tips and to find a CFP professional near you who can help you review your options and determine the best plan for meeting your goals, visit letsmakeaplan.org. For questions or for more information about your specific loans, contact your student loan provider.

Back to School

Your kids need more than paper, pens and pencils. The start of school is not far off. So while you make sure your youngster has the right school supplies, there’s another need to consider – his or her health. We have convenient Center for Pediatric locations that make it easier for you to get your child’s back-toschool physical exam, immunizations, treatments and more. Our board-certified pediatricians and their staffs are highly experienced, friendly and always accept new patients.

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Dr. Claire Paxton Wheeling 304-243-1250

Dr. Brian Vaske Martins Ferry 740-633-6480 Wheeling 304-243-8850 Dr. Hsinn Hong-Wang Wheeling 304-243-1250 St. Clairsville 740-695-1250

Dr. Sheela Rao Martins Ferry 740-633-6480 Wheeling 304-243-8850

Call toll-free: 1-877-945-7337 Supplement To THE INTELLIGENCER and NEWS-REGISTER - Wheeling, W.Va. - Tuesday, July 30, 2019 - 7

Tips for Finding an Afterschool Program Today’s children grow up differently than their parents did. Technology has changed the way students learn in the classroom, but perhaps the biggest difference between how today’s kids grow up and how their parents were raised concerns the dynamic at home. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018 both parents worked in 63 percent of households that were home to married-couple families with children. Many of those parents likely did not grow up in households in which both of their parents worked full-time throughout their childhoods, marking a significant difference in the dynamics of modern families compared to those of yesteryear. Afterschool programs take on heightened importance when both parents work full-time, especially if neither parent works from home. Many schools and community organizations offer afterschool programs. While it’s great to have options, too many options can make it daunting for parents to find the program for their children. The Afterschool Alliance (www.afterschoolalliance.org), which works to ensure all youth have access to affordable, quality afterschool programs, offers the following tips to parents as they look to find afterschool programs for their children. ∫ Contact educators at your child’s school. Many schools have afterschool programs on school premises. Speak with school administrators or teachers about school-sponsored afterschool programs. Even if a school does not have such a program, educators might be able to provide a list of nearby programs other students attend. ∫ Contact community organizations. The Afterschool Alliance notes that many community organizations, such as the YMCA, the Boys & Girls Clubs of

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Afterschool programs are invaluable to families in which both parents work. Finding the right program may involve a combination of strategies. America and the 4-H Council, may offer ∫ Speak with fellow parents and neigh∫ Contact your local government. Loafterschool programs. Local churches, bors. Your community is a great resource. cal government offices and officials also synagogues and mosques also may offer Fellow parents and neighbors, even can help parents find afterschool programs afterschool programs to local families, those whose kids may be in high school in their communities. Local Child Care regardless of their religious affiliation. or even out of the house, may be able to Resource and Referral agencies (www. When speaking to community organiza- recommend local programs. Reach out at childcareaware.org) can be valuable assets tions, discuss how kids are typically trans- school-sponsored events or via social me- for parents having trouble finding afterported from school to the program. dia. school programs for their children.

School Supplies Giveaway Is Set For Aug. 10 at Bethlehem Apostolic Temple In Wheeling, the annual AdoptA-Student program sponsored by Bethlehem Apostolic Temple on North Main Street, was founded in 1990 by Dr. D.W. Cummings, pastor at the church and Shiloh Apostolic Faith Assembly. This year’s school supply giveaway will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 10 at the North Wheeling Dream Center, 407 Main St., Wheeling. Children must accompany an adult to receive supplies. Cummings, recalling his own childhood needs when attending school, has generated donations to 8 - Supplement To THE INTELLIGENCER and NEWS-REGISTER - Wheeling, W.Va. - Tuesday, July 30, 2019

provide hundreds of area children with school supplies, clothing and shoes. Local businesses and individual donors have made it possible for the back-to-school program possible. Many of these folks also help out on the day of the program where people are known to line up hours before the doors open. According the church’s website, “With the favor of God, and the help of sponsors and volunteers of the church and the community, Adopt-A-Student has been able to make a change in many individuals lives and send children back to school with a positive attitude.”

Make Safety A Part Of Cheerleading Cheerleading can be a physically demanding activity full of stunts, dancing and tumbling. Although it was initially designed to entertain and motivate crowds during sporting events, cheerleading has become a competition in its own right and features seasoned athletes who dedicate themselves and commit to year-round rigorous training. Active Network, a company that provides software as a service for sports activity and participant management, says that more than 3.3 million Americans participate in cheerleading each year. Sometimes referred to as spirit sports, cheerleading also is popular in Canada. Over the last 10 years, several cheerleading gyms have opened in Alberta and other areas of the country. Cheerleading teams perform tumbling, dance, gymnastics, and acrobatic stunts. Particular squad members are selected to be “flyers” who are lifted or tossed in the air by their “bases,” according to Sports Medicine Update. An increasing level of complexity and stunts can put cheerleading athletes at high risk for injury. The University of Rochester Medical Center says many cheerleading injuries now occur when athletes perform risky maneuvers. Data collected by the National High School Sports-Related Injury Surveillance Study from 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 indicates cheerleading has a disproportionately high rate of catastrophic injuries (over 50 percent of all catastrophic injuries in female high school athletes), including skull fractures, death, cervical fractures or major ligamentous injury, spinal cord contusions, paralysis, and severe head injuries resulting in permanent brain injury, compared to other sports.

ALL COUNTY SCHO H S R OLS MA

2019-2020

WV Universal PreK Orientation: August 20-21

Personnel Returns

Mon., Aug. 12

WV Universal PreK August 22 First day of class for WV Universal PreK students.

Schools Open Students Return Thurs., August 15

Welcome Back!

Teachers will contact parents.

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS

Kindergarten August 15-16

John Miller President

Kindergarten Orientation/ Instructional Day- Teachers will contact parents.

Christie Robison Vice President

August 19

First day of class for Kindergarten Students

Brenda Coffield Lori Kestner Dr. Duane Miller

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS:

SCHOOL LISTINGS: SECONDARY SCHOOLS

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Although it was initially designed to entertain and motivate crowds during sporting events, cheerleading has become a competition in its own right and features seasoned athletes who dedicate themselves and commit to year-round rigorous training. To stay safe during cheerleading competitions, participants and their parents should understand the activity is not without risk. However, certain steps can make the sport more safe. ∫ TeensHealth from Nemours says flyers might want to consider wearing a lightweight cheer vest while practicing to protect themselves from bruising and injuries. ∫ Cheerleaders should wear the proper footwear, which includes rubber-soled shoes. ∫ Landing mats or spring floors that absorb impact should be used during practices. ∫ Restrict pyramid heights to prevent falls. Children’s Hospital Colorado says that pyramids may only be two

levels in high school, and in college they may only be 2.5 body lengths. ∫ Cheerleading coaches should ensure that participants understand and can perform basic skills before introducing more advanced acrobatic/gymnastics maneuvers. ∫ The USA Federation for Sport Cheering mandates the use of spotters for pyramids and basket tosses, and they should be used in both practice and competition. These spotters must always be present and properly trained. ∫ Coaches should be certified by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Advisors. This program is to educate cheerleading coaches at all levels.

School John Marshall High School Grades 9-12

School Address 1300 Wheeling Ave. Glen Dale, WV 26038

School Phone 304-843-4444

Cameron Elementary Grades PreK-5

Cameron High School Grades 6-12

2012 Blue & Gold Way Cameron, WV 26033

304-686-3336

Center McMechen Elementary 800 Marshall St. Grades PreK-8 McMechen, WV 26040

Moundsville Middle School Grades 6, 7 & 8

223 Tomlinson Ave. Moundsville, WV 26041

304-843-4440

Central Elementary Grades 3, 4, & 5

705 Tomlinson Ave. 304-843-4425 Moundsville, WV 26041

Sherrard Middle School Grade 6, 7 & 8

1000 Fairmont Pike Wheeling, WV 26003

304-233-3331

Glen Dale Elementary Grades PreK-5

407 Seventh St. Glen Dale, WV 26038

340-843-4427

Alternative Education Center

37 Oak Ave. Moundsville, WV 26041

304-843-4445

Hilltop Elementary Grades PreK-5

2 Ram Drive Wheeling, WV 26003

304-232-8640

ADULT EDUCATION-ABE/GED

901 8th Street Moundsville, WV 26041

304-845-7890

McNinch Elementary Grades PreK-2

119 Tiger Lane 304-843-4431 Moundsville, WV 26041

Sand Hill Elementary Grades K-5

169 Sand Hill Rd. Dallas, WV 26036

Questions Concerning School Bus Transportation should be directed to the

12 Church Street Cameron, WV 26033

2019 - 2020 Calendar Highlights 15 2 14 22 8 11 27-29 2 20 23-Jan 3 6 8

First Day for Students Labor Day – School Closed Curriculum Development Day (No School for Students) Nine Week Grade Report Sent Home Professional Learning Day (No School for Students) Veterans Day Observed – School Closed Thanksgiving Break – School Closed School Resumes Professional Learning Day (No School for Students) Christmas Break – School Closed School Resumes First Semester Grade Report Sent Home

Dr. Shelby Haines Woody Yoder Erin Cuffaro Deborah Derico Carla Garrison Nan Hartley Meagan Kirchner Karen Klamut

January February March April April April May May May May May

304-232-6530

304-547-5041

Washington Lands Elementary 116 School Rd. 304-843-4420 Grades K-5 Moundsville, WV 26041

Transportation Department 304-843-4422

August September October October November November November December December December January January

304-686-3305

20 14 13 9 10-13 14 11 12 14 15 20

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - School Closed Professional Learning Day (No School for Students) Nine Week Grade Report Sent Home Professional Learning Day (No School for Students) Spring Break - School Closed School Resumes Professional Learning Day (No School for Students) Election Day - School Closed John Marshall High School Graduation Cameron High School Graduation Last Day for Students

Cancellation Make-up Schedule 1. May 21 2. May 22 3. May 26 4. May 27 5. May 28 6. May 29 7. June 1 8. June 2 9. June 3 10. June 4

County Board Office Staff

Superintendent Assistant Superintendent Director of Special Programs Director of Child Nutrition Technology Director Business Manager Personnel Director/In-House Counsel Director of Pupil Services/Title I

P.O. Box 578 214 Middle Grave Creek Rd. Moundsville, WV 26041

304-843-4400

Job Posting . Phone Number 304-843-4469

Dave McCombs Tracy Mercer Harry Midcap Michael Price David Soltesz Scott Varner Bob Wilson Tony Wood

Maintenance Foreman Attendance Director Director of Transportation Facilities Director WVEIS/Safety Coordinator Director of Career, Technical & Adult Education TASC/AE Coordinator Communications Director

For School calendar & additional information visit Marshall County Schools at: http://boe.mars.k12.wv.us

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How to Help Kids Make Friends The average student likely spends more time at school and participating in extracurricular activities with classmates than he or she does at home. In close proximity to so many peers, it may seem like making friends would be a snap. However, some students have trouble connecting and can use a little push to make friends. The family and parenting resource Parenting Science notes that research indicates that the most popular children are those who exemplify certain traits. These traits include being caring; a willingness to share; a willingness to offer help; and strong verbal skills. Children who embrace these traits may prove better at making friends. Parents may find that youngsters need some encouragement to build their social circles, and the following are some ways parents can offer that encouragement. ∫ Encourage kids to seek out someone on their own. It may be challenging to walk up to a group and introduce yourself. Encourage students to seek out someone who is alone and then strike up a conversation, which can be less intimidating than approaching a group. Emphasize to kids that other students may also be a little shy and looking to make friends. ∫ Practice conversation starters at home. Children can work with their parents to come up with topics that can help foster communication. These can include ice breakers and common interests, such as favorite television shows or video games. ∫ Teach kids approachable body language. Wearing earbuds or exhibiting negative body language, such as crossed arms or avoiding eye contact, can make a person seem less approachable. Smiling, engaging in conversation and being friendly can

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Making friends in school can make time spent in the classroom more enjoyable for youngsters. make it easier to make friends. ∫ Ask teachers to help. The education resource Understood says teachers can give children responsibilities, such as the opportunity to hand out snacks or papers, which can build confidence and provide opportunities for kids to converse with their peers. ∫ Help children be active listeners. An active listener is someone who makes it

clear that he or she is paying attention. Making eye contact, orienting the body toward the speaker and making relevant verbal responses are some active listening strategies that can help kids more fully engage with their peers. Feeling valued and listened to may encourage other children to be more friendly and engaging. Ask open questions. The social networking advisement site Young Scot sug-

gests having students ask open questions, such as: “How was your summer?” or “What sports do you like to play?” These types of questions can kick-start in-depth conversations. ∫ Join a team or club. Students often make friends in social or extracurricular settings, such as on a sports team. With a shared interest, it’s easy to find topics to discuss.

Why Getting Immunizations Are Important Measles is not something that garnered much attention outside the medical community in recent decades. However, in 2019 a series of measles outbreaks put the spotlight back on this highly contagious infectious disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between January 1, 2019, and May 31, 2019, 981 individual cases of measles had been confirmed in 26 states in the United States. That marked the greatest numbers of measles cases reported in the U.S. since 1992. And the U.S. is not the only country in North America facing a mea-

sles problem, as the Public Health Agency of Canada reported that, as of mid-May, 54 cases of measles had been reported in the country in 2019. Perhaps most surprising, measles was declared eliminated in 2001, leading many to wonder what’s behind the sudden outbreaks so long after the disease had seemingly vanished. The CDC reports that the majority of people who got measles in 2019 were unvaccinated. While measles was declared eliminated nearly 20 years ago in the United States, the CDC notes it’s still common in many parts of the world. When unvaccinated travel-

ers visit countries where measles is still common, they can bring the disease with them, ultimately allowing it to spread in communities where large groups of people are unvaccinated. Regardless of why people choose to avoid vaccinations, it’s important to note some of the reasons why health organizations like the CDC and the World Health Organization urge all children and adults to be immunized. ∫ Immunizations save lives. The CDC notes that advancements in medical science have made it possible for humans to protect themselves against more diseases

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than ever before. Once-fatal diseases have now been eliminated thanks to safe and effective vaccines. ∫ Immunizations protect loved ones. Some people cannot receive certain immunizations due to allergies, illness, weakened immune systems, or other factors. Such individuals are vulnerable to disease, and especially vulnerable if their loved ones who can be vaccinated do not receive their recommended immunizations. ∫mmunizations save money. The human toll of failing to be immunized can be fatal, and the financial toll can be heavy, too.

Children with vaccine-preventable diseases may not be allowed to enroll in certain schools or daycare facilities, forcing parents to make decisions that can affect their ability to earn a living. In addition, medical bills that result from long-term illnesses can be substantial. The majority of health insurance plans cover vaccines for adults and children at little or no cost, and even uninsured families can receive free or inexpensive vaccines through certain government programs. Immunizations take only a few seconds to receive but can have a positive effect that lasts a lifetime.

What To Do When Back-to-School Bites You in the Budget By ALICE HOLBROOK NerdWallet It might seem like you’ve been saving for back to school since you packed your children’s backpacks last fall. But after replacing wornout erasers, outgrown clothes and an outdated laptop, you may still feel the financial pinch. And then there are items for which you didn’t budget. Maybe it’s a budding interest in a travel sport, a fundraiser, or birthday cupcakes. “Parents think they’re going to get a bonus because day care is gone,” says Court Creeden, a North Carolina-based financial adviser whose practice focuses on parents. “They quickly realize that all the expenses that come from school add up.” If the unexpected expenses are for the classroom, you might be tempted to say yes, even if they stress your bank balance. But if you can’t afford it all — or the asks seem excessive — here’s what to do. PRIORITIZE EXPENSES When working with a limited budget , you’ll have to choose what’s worth the cash. “Sometimes kids do things because their friends are doing it. Then that may not be as high a priority as if it’s a requirement or related to college entrance examinations,” says Samantha Gregory, who blogs about parenting and finances at Rich Single Momma. She paid for her daughter to attend aviation camp because she felt it would bolster college applications. If you want your child to build social skills, then activities with their friends may win out. The point is deciding what’s important to you, and then spending intentionally. Creeden asks his clients if

AP Photo

In this file photo, public school buses are parked in Springfield, Ill. It might seem like you ve been saving for back to school since you packed your children’ s backpacks last fall. But after replacing worn-out erasers, outgrown clothes and an outdated laptop, you may still feel the financial pinch. “where they’re spending their money is in line with the life they’re trying to create with their family.” Setting limits upfront can also help. “I always had a rule that for every term (my kids) could only be involved in one activity,” Gregory says. This helps head off ballooning extracurricular costs — and burnout. SEEK ALTERNATIVE FUNDING OPTIONS If you believe an expense is worthwhile, but don’t think you can afford it, you might have other options.

Blogger Kumiko Love builds an emergency fund for last-minute school costs before the year starts. And when her son wanted to start wrestling, she planned meals around ingredients she already had and sold an unused couch to afford the equipment. “Having my son be involved in sports is important to me, so I gave up certain ‘wants’ for the month to compensate,” says Love, who writes at The Budget Mom. Public school parents might find assistance with some school expenses through their Parent Teacher Association, says Heidi Ember-

ling, director of Parents Place, a family resource center in the San Francisco Bay Area. Or if you can’t donate to a fundraiser or classroom event, volunteer instead. “There are lots of ways to contribute, and money is only one of those ways,” Emberling says. USE ‘NO’ AS A TEACHING MOMENT If you simply can’t afford a school expense, etiquette and lifestyle expert Elaine Swann recommends an “on-your-own-terms no.” That might mean offering an alternative, such as a sleepover in place

of a pricey class overnight. When her kids were younger, Gregory would explain, “We’re going to be doing this in a few months, so we’re saving the money for that.” And she suggests discussing your priorities with older kids and involving them in the decision. Sometimes “they end up telling themselves no, so I don’t necessarily have to,” she says. Worried this sounds too sophisticated? It might not be; kids who already have an allowance are primed for a talk about financial trade-offs, according to Emberling.

College Majors Than Can Lead to Higher Earnings Choosing a college major is an important decision that many students delay making until their sophomore or even junior years. Only after taking a few courses and uncovering one’s interests do some college students figure out what they want to do with their lives. Each student is different, and while some may pursue

a degree based on a particular passion, others may choose majors that can lead to high-paying jobs. While men often lean toward majors like engineering and computer science that have traditionally been linked to high earnings, women have historically gravitated to lower-paying specialties like education and social sciences. But

in recent years a shift has occurred, and more women have begun to choose majors associated with higher post-graduate salaries. Reports from the career guidance site Glassdoor analyzed how much male and female professionals with the same college degree earned and identified many instances in which women went on to earn

more than men in the first five years of their career. They’ve identified several majors where female college graduates can earn as much or more than their male counterparts and find successful careers. ∫ Architecture ∫ Pharmaceutical sciences ∫ Information sciences ∫ Chemical engineering

∫ Computer science ∫ Electrical engineering ∫ Mechanical engineering ∫ Computer engineering ∫ Business economics ∫ Civil engineering ∫ Sports management Despite these findings, the college resource CollegeFactual and the U.S. Department of Education says that women remain

likely to pursue education, design and applied arts, health services, and social work as career options. Female students unsure of which major they want to pursue can take career assessments to help narrow down their options. Working with mentors or engaging in internships also can present a first-hand idea of high-paying career paths.

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